CMDB Configuration Item De-duplication via Master Representation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inaccuracies and duplicate representations of configuration items in a Configuration Management Database (CMDB) lead to inefficiencies in information technology service management and waste storage space, as existing systems fail to effectively manage and reconcile data accurately.
Innovation Solution
A de-duplication task tool is introduced that allows clients to interact with a web-based graphical user interface to consolidate duplicate configuration item representations into a single master representation, reducing storage requirements and preventing future duplicates within the CMDB.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If duplicate representations of configuration items are allowed in the CMDB, then storage capacity is increased, but data accuracy and operational clarity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts duplicate configuration item representations from the CMDB through automated detection and consolidation processes. The system identifies duplicates by comparing configuration attributes and consolidates them into single master representations, removing redundant data while preserving necessary storage capacity for unique configuration items.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of configuration item uniqueness by implementing duplicate detection mechanisms that compare configuration attributes. The system transforms the state of configuration data from allowing duplicates to enforcing uniqueness through automated reconciliation processes that update the CMDB based on detected duplicates.
2Measurement precision
If manual de-duplication processes are used, then data accuracy is improved, but operational complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary automated duplicate detection and identification processes that scan the CMDB before manual intervention is needed. The system pre-identifies duplicate configuration items by comparing configuration attributes and prepares consolidation recommendations, reducing the time required for manual de-duplication operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the CMDB system to perform self-service duplicate detection and consolidation through automated algorithms that identify and merge duplicate configuration items without requiring continuous manual oversight. The system automatically reconciles duplicates by comparing configuration data and updating the database, reducing operational time consumption.
3Measurement precision
If automated duplicate detection is implemented, then data accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal duplicate detection mechanism that can identify duplicates across multiple configuration item types and attributes through a single automated process. The system uses multi-functional comparison algorithms that work across different configuration categories, reducing the need for separate detection systems for each configuration type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent manages system complexity by changing the parameters of duplicate detection through configurable thresholds and attribute selection. The system allows adjustment of detection sensitivity and scope, enabling organizations to balance accuracy requirements against system complexity by modifying detection parameters rather than redesigning the entire system.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system may include a database containing representations of configuration items associated with a managed network that is managed by a remote network management platform. The system may also contain a server device that may be configured to determine a set of duplicate representations of a particular configuration item of the configuration items. The configuration items may relate to computing devices and software applications disposed within the managed network. The server device may be further configured to generate a master representation from the set of duplicate configuration items. The server device may replace, in the database, the set of duplicate representations with the master representation.